Why you should get an Inspection

Whether you are buying or selling a home, you should have a professional home inspection performed.The exception to this rule is when you purchase a home in its 'as is' condition and you're prepared for any and all surprises.

A home inspection will look at the systems that make up the building such as:

• Structural elements, foundation, framing etc
• Plumbing systems
• Roofing
• Electrical systems
• Cosmetic condition, paint, siding etc
• Sometimes a termite inspection is included...be sure to ask 

If you are buying a home, you need to know exactly what you are getting. A home inspection, performed by a professional home inspector, may reveal many hidden problems with the home so that they may be addressed BEFORE the transaction is closed. As soon as your offer is accepted (and assuming your have included a contingency for  Conducting an Inspection as a part of the contract) schedule your inspection. In Kansas, there is no licensing for Home Inspectors. It's critical that you do your homework before making your choice.  Hire your own inspector, follow him or her around the home as the inspection is done,  and pay close attention to the inspection report. Realize that no inspector will find all problems. Sometimes a long list of repairs equates to little money and sometimes a short list equates to a lot of money.  Be prepared to renegotiate. If deficiences are too costly to repair, you may need to choose another home.

If you plan to sell your home, you'll want to know about potential hidden problems before your house goes on the market. It's better to pay for your own inspection before putting your home on the market and correct deficiencies in advance than to find out about problems from the buyer's inspector. Almost all contracts include the condition that the contract is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory inspection.  If the buyer's inspector finds significant problems, the buyer may get cold feet. At best, surprise problems uncovered by the buyer's inspector will likely cause delays in closing, and oftentimes adversely affect your bottom line.